What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s something magical about baking bread at home, and this recipe makes it easy and fun. You’ll love the smell filling your kitchen and the pride of pulling a golden loaf from the oven.
- Simple ingredients – Just flour, water, yeast, and salt come together to create something amazing.
- No fancy tools needed – Mix it by hand, let it rise, and bake it in a regular oven.
- Endless possibilities – Add herbs, cheese, or seeds to make it your own.
Recipe
Freshly baked homemade bread is a comforting and rewarding experience. This simple recipe yields a classic loaf with a crisp crust and soft, airy interior.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups (455g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp (8g) salt
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1 tsp (5g) sugar
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes:
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Cuisine: Universal
Serving: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Nutrition
Nutritional values can vary based on ingredients and serving sizes. Below is an approximate breakdown per slice.
| Nutrient | Amount per slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
What To Serve With It
There’s nothing better than warm homemade bread slathered with savory spreads like garlic herb butter or sun-dried tomato pesto. If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese for extra flair. Trust me, these combos will make your bread the star of any meal!
Savory Spreads
A warm slice of homemade bread is even better when paired with the right savory spread, and I’ve got plenty of favorites to share. I love slathering mine with a garlic and herb butter—it’s simple but packs so much flavor. Another go-to is a tangy olive tapenade, perfect for adding a salty, briny kick. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a sun-dried tomato pesto, blending it with a bit of olive oil for richness. For something creamy, a roasted red pepper spread with a hint of smoked paprika always hits the spot. These spreads take bread from good to unforgettable!
Cheese Selections
Pairing homemade bread with the right cheese can transform a simple snack into something special, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. A sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that complements the bread’s soft texture, while creamy brie melts perfectly on a warm slice. For something tangy, I reach for goat cheese—it’s light and spreadable, adding an invigorating twist. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll try a smoky gouda or a nutty gruyère, both of which have rich, complex tastes. Don’t forget a drizzle of honey or fig jam—it pairs wonderfully with almost any cheese!
